A Slovak speaker celebrated the “end” of a drink-driving ban a month too early after misreading a DVLA letter in English and Welsh, a court has heard.

Lukas Lichner, 34, a self-employed gardener, of Dolydd, Llandudno, then got behind the wheel of a Nissan Note car to drive a friend home after she had an asthma attack, believing he was fit to do so – and ended up disqualified for a second time.

Magistrates at Llandudno have imposed a three years ban. The defendant must also pay fines totalling £320 and £115 costs.

Lichner admitted driving with excess alcohol and when banned and uninsured at Llandudno early on May 12. His first ban would have finished on June 12.

Defence solicitor Huw Roberts said: "He misread the letter.”